Samsung DeX – A Continuum for Galaxy S8, with support from Microsoft and Adobe

Samsung DeX connected between Galaxy S8 and a Large Display / Photo by Samsung

Along with the latest Galaxy S8 smartphone, Samsung also announced a bunch of products. One of which is the “Samsung DeX” – like Microsoft Continuum.

People might not have forgotten an impressive feature “Continuum” that Microsoft introduced two years ago to use Windows 10 smartphones as a PC with the help of a docking station. “DeX” is the Samsung version of the similar idea that will transform Galaxy S8 into a PC-like experience on bigger screen.

Whereas Continuum is a feature that is supported by various kinds of wired or wireless docking stations, Samsung DeX is, in fact, the docking station that works just like that.

Samsung disclosed that it has developed the “DeX” dock in collaboration with Microsoft and Adobe. However considering the platform impact, it would hardly be a PC-like experience as only the Android apps will run on the larger screen. Provided that the apps are optimized to run on DeX interface.

Samsung DeX – Connected to Large Display

Samsung DeX – Starting Up

So, not to afraid, as Microsoft Office and various Adobe apps are fully compatible at DeX with desktop-like functionality and user interface. For instance – creativity apps such as Adobe Reader mobile and Adobe Lightroom mobile, Behance, and Photoshop Express will run on Samsung DeX. Not to mention the productivity of Word and Excel from Microsoft Office.

If you are wondering that – No Windows, No PC-like experience, then for enterprise individuals, Samsung DeX also has support for products like Citrix, VMware, and Amazon Web Services. After all you can remotely access Windows-based hosts right from a connected Galaxy S8 with the help of Samsung DeX.

Samsung DeX Station provides the connectivity with two USB 2.0 ports, an Ethernet port. A USB Type-C interface is provided for power source and a cooling fan is also there to keep it calm. “The DeX Station also features Adaptive Fast Charging (AFC) technology to charge your Samsung smartphone quickly while connected.

Samsung DeX Price and Availability

The DeX Station will be available globally with the Galaxy S8 and may be offered as a packaged bundle depending on region. Samsung has not announced the price of DeX but according to reports it may cost around $160.